In celebrating our 30th anniversary, we at Columbia Metropolitan know that the magazine would not still be in business without the support of the many thriving businesses that make up our community. It is therefore our great privilege to congratulate the winners of the 2020 Best of Columbia contest. These winners have been voted the very best in the Midlands by our readers — the patrons, clients, and peers of all these businesses. This year, we asked winners to reflect on their most memorable moments from 2019, and in some cases, from their history in business overall. Congratulations to all the winners!
FOOD
Best Appetizer
Di Prato’s Delicatessen
Best Barbecue
Little Pigs Barbecue
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
I was inducted into the S.C. Restaurant Association Hall of Fame, and my youngest daughter got married in the mountains. And we won the CMM Best of Columbia again. Sweet!
— Champ McGee
Best Chicken Salad
The Gourmet Shop
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
2019 was a big year for me! I purchased The Gourmet Shop in February while also in the process of planning St. Pat’s in Five Points.
— Amy Beth Franks
Best French Fries
Chick-fil-A
Best Hamburger
Pawleys Front Porch
Best Fried Chicken
Zesto
Best Hot Dog
Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs
Best Sandwich
Groucho’s Deli
Best Pizza
Marco’s Pizza
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
Back in the spring we participated in Lexington Kid’s Day when we donated more than 400 pizzas to the local community. Seeing the excitement on the children’s faces that day made it all worthwhile!
Best Ribs
Home Team BBQ
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
Our opening in May was certainly memorable. Locals embraced us with open arms, a line formed out the door, and we received encouraging feedback. We can’t thank everyone enough!
Best Shrimp and Grits
Blue Marlin
Best Steak
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
What was your most difficult moment this year?
2019 was punctuated with sadness at Ruth’s Chris Columbia. On Aug. 11, we lost Charles Virgal Taylor, II – a dear friend and longtime team member – after a hard-fought battle with illness. His light continues to shine brightly on our Columbia restaurant, and his impact on our Ruth’s Chris family will never be forgotten. As we look ahead to 2020, we continue to remember Charles and strive to make this our best year yet in his honor. May the fond memories of Charles bring comfort to everyone who knew and loved him.
Best Biscuits
Eggs Up Grill
Best Iced Tea
Groucho’s Deli
Best Wings
Publick House
Best Bakery
Tiffany’s Bakery and Eatery
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
The most exciting moment for us this year was the May move to our new 7,500 square foot building, adding an expanded restaurant menu, delicious new pastries and a bar with 23 different craft beers and wine. We have had so much fun and invite all of Columbia to visit soon!
Best Cookies
Tiffany’s Bakery and Eatery
Best Cupcake
Cupcake DownSouth
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
The response from our guests when we launched our Sweet Image! Photo Cupcakes. It is very rewarding to see their reactions to having photos of family members or loved ones appear on their cupcakes and mega-cakes!
Best Dessert
Nonnah’s
As we close our doors after 23 years of business, we would like to thank our loyal customers who have allowed us to be part of their special events. We will miss you all.
Best Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt
Sweet Cream Company
Best Milkshake
Grill Marks
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
Our most memorable moment was when our guests wrote letters to Santa … it’s a hit every single year!
Best Organic Food Store
Rosewood Market
Best Supermarket
Publix
Treating customers like royalty, investing in each other, and giving back to our community are just a few of Publix’s founding principles that continue to guide associates today. These principles are ingrained in the Publix culture and contribute to our success.
RESTAURANTS
Best Restaurant in Columbia
Motor Supply Co. Bistro
Best Restaurant in Irmo
Miyo’s
What is one of your most memorable moments in business?
It was the day when it snowed, and two servers did not show up. It was at my first Miyo’s, probably in 1997. We thought it would be slow, but around noon, the snow stopped, and everyone poured into the restaurant. As the only table server, I found myself apologizing for the service constantly and told everyone not to leave any tip. Interesting enough, everyone not only left tips, but they left extravagant tips and kind notes. To this day, I can still say Columbia has the best customers who motivate and inspire us to continue our business here!
— Michelle Wang
Best Restaurant in Lexington
Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
Best Restaurant in Northeast
Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar
Best Restaurant in Forest Acres
Tombo Grill
Best Restaurant in West Columbia/Cayce
Cafe Strudel
Best New Restaurant
Halls Chophouse
What was your most challenging moment in 2019?
On our opening night, we noticed water starting to drip that grew to unleashing 300 gallons of water per minute — an absolute waterfall gushing from the ceiling right as guests were arriving. Thankfully, the engineer arrived and turned off the water just in time, and our team was able to provide a flawless dinner for our guests.
Best Happy Hour
Cantina 76
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
In November of this year, we celebrated the 10-year anniversary of our Devine Street location. We also were inducted into the Columbia Restaurant Hall of Fame this year.
Best Brewery
River Rat Brewery
Best Coffee House
Drip
Best Bang for your Buck
The Original Pancake House
What was your most surprising moment in 2019?
When we stopped to realize that we have been in business for nearly three decades! Now we can start planning for a 30-year celebration with our loyal staff and customers.
Best Business Lunch
Di Prato’s Delicatessen
Best Family Restaurant
Groucho’s Deli
Best Romantic Dinner
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Best Fine Dining
Mr. Friendly’s
What was your happiest moment in 2019?
My happiest moment was on April 3 when four generations of my family had dinner on the patio at Mr. Friendly’s. Great-Grandma Jean traveled from Oklahoma to join my wife, Erica, and me along with my mom, “Grandma Bonnie,” and our three kids, Max (6), Zoey (4) and Baby Claire (2). After 20-plus years in this business of ups and downs, that sure makes it all feel pretty darn good!
— Ricky Mollohan
Best Outdoor Dining
Il Giorgione Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Best Sunday Brunch
Motor Supply Co. Bistro
Best Seafood
Blue Marlin
Best Healthy Restaurant
Good Life Café
Best Food Truck
Pawleys Mobile Eats
Best Wait Staff
Halls Chophouse
Best Atmosphere
Mr. Friendly’s
Best Wine Shop
Morganelli’s Party Store
Best Fast Food Restaurant
Rush’s
All Rush’s locations appreciate patrons for voting us “Best Fast Food Restaurant.” The Midlands landmark has served three generations over the past 80 years. Thank you, loyal customers, for helping Rush’s establish such a strong tradition of excellence! We couldn’t make it without you “loving the taste we’re made of.”
Best Chinese
Miyo’s
Best Greek
Mediterranean Tea Room
Best Italian
Il Giorgione Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Best Japanese
Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar
Best Mexican
Cantina 76
Best Sushi Restaurant
Miyo’s
Best Thai
Basil Thai Cuisine
What was your funniest moment in 2019?
I was in an interview hiring a server and asked what sort of availability they were seeking. Oftentimes, I’m doing too much at once and my brain thinks faster than the words that I am saying. I meant to ask, “Are you seeking full or part time (employment)?” Instead it came out, “Are you looking for fart-time?”
— Sue Eang
RETAIL
Best Women’s Clothing
Just the Thing
What was your most challenging moment in 2019?
We had a few staff members move away this year, and we really miss them. However, at the same time, some really wonderful new people have joined our team. “When God closes a door, he opens another.”
Best Women’s Evening Wear
Monkee’s of Columbia
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
One of our most memorable moments of 2019 was introducing Sassy as our “shop dog.” Sassy is a Skye terrier rescue that has become a fixture at Monkee’s. She brings joy to our staff and many of our customers, so if you haven’t met Sassy, please stop by and say hello!
Best Women’s Shoes
Copper Penny
Best Men’s Clothing
BP Skinner Clothiers
Best Men’s Formal Wear
Brittons of Columbia
What was your happiest moment in 2019?
We had a groom forget his socks and bow tie for his wedding this past year. We delivered them to the wedding venue 10 minutes before ceremony. The wedding was fabulous, and they are happily married.
Best Men’s Shoes
Granger Owings
Best Children’s Clothing
Duck Duck Goose
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
It was signing the lease for our new space. Since opening just over a year ago, we’ve felt like we’ve been a part of the community forever. We’re so grateful to our customers for giving this opportunity to expand and grow and bring you more Duck Duck Goose!
Best Children’s Shoes
Marigold Modern Kids
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
2019 was a big year for us. We expanded our storefront, which gave us the capacity to host a Mom’s Morning Out in October. We look forward to offering more in 2020 and are so thankful for the Marigold community and the continuous support.
Best Bridal Wear
London and Lace
Best Resort Wear
Pink Sorbet
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
It was witnessing the growth on Devine Street this year! The energy and buzz around this district is palpable. I have the pleasure of serving those who have been shopping with us for 12 years and also weekly meeting new friends discovering us for the first time!
— Beth Baxley
Best Bridal Registry
non(e)such
What was your happiest moment in 2019?
The 40th anniversary of non(e)such was our happiest time of 2019. As the third generation of our family takes the lead, we look forward to many more wonderful years in Columbia.
Best Weekend Wear
Mainstream Boutique
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
We hit our five-year anniversary this past September and are grateful for our customers’ support and the opportunity to style the ladies of Columbia. We are excited to announce that we will be moving down the street to The Forum shopping center at 2800 Devine St.
Best Jewelry Store
Sylvan’s
Best Accessories
Over the Top Boutique
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
We always have those customers who come in and say thank you for all the time, attention, and kindness we show them. We provide classic clothing and accessories with a European flair. Our oldest customer is 101 and still enjoys shopping with us.
Best Gift Store
Gibson’s
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
My most memorable moment was the hour before our Grand Opening on Saluda Avenue on June 1. While in awe I walked around the quiet store in tears, remembering back in 1987 when I had just arrived in this country and I could hardly speak any English; I entered Gibson’s in this very location, and I bought my first Crane stationery, which I could hardly afford as a college student.
— Ima Thibodeaux
Best Vision Wear
Folline Vision Centers
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
It was receiving the call from our Chanel senior brand ambassador inviting us to the Chanel New York headquarters in Manhattan for a private purchasing event, brand education, and fun. But the most exciting moment was realizing that we have the honor of being named Best in Vision Wear for 2020!
Best Clothing Consignment Store
Revente Luxury Resale
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
We have spent a lot of time and effort this year focusing on luxury brands and bringing more high-end handbags and accessories into the store. It has been exciting and extremely rewarding to see how thrilled our customers have been to join us on this journey. Providing authentic luxury goods to our customers is what we live for!
Best Toy Store
Be Beep
What has been your most challenging moment in business?
When a crowd of more than a hundred people gathered outside the store waiting on the UPS delivery truck to bring the latest Beanie Babies. An unsuspecting dad walked past the crowd and entered the store, causing the crowd to pour into the store thinking they may have missed the delivery. Pandemonium broke out. The large crowd first invaded the store, then pounced on the UPS truck when it arrived. One of the unruly customers grabbed an employee, and we called the Forest Acres police for help!
Best Antique Store
Camden Antiques Market
Best Frame Shop
The Frame Shop
Best Local Art
OTM Gallery
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
It was a football game! In the usual pandemonium of frenzied game fans, I had the privilege of seeing my oldest granddaughter in her new college environment. I am grateful for my lovely granddaughter, Eliza, and for my other eight terrific grandchildren who teach me life lessons every day.
— Julia Moore
Best Local Art Supply Store
City Art
Best Local Pet Supply Store
Mill Creek Pet Food Center
Best Hunting/Fishing Store
Barron’s Outfitters
Best Outdoor Store
Half-Moon Outfitters
Best Running Specialty Store
Strictly Running
Best Bicycle Specialty Store
Outspokin’ Bicycles
Best Gamecock Store
Addam’s University Bookstore
Best Mattress Store
Best Mattress
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
I received a call from the commander of USS Philippine Sea Guided Missile Cruiser, who wanted us to make a new custom mattress for his stateroom before leaving for a long deployment. I went and took a tour of this billion dollar warship and met the crew. The commander had purchased a mattress from us before, which made all our team very proud.
— Buddy Delaney
Best Office Furnishings
Corporate Concepts
Best Office Supply Store
Lorick Office Products
Best Shopping Venue
Devine Street
What was your most exciting moment of 2019?
Devine Street has always been known for its shopping and dining experiences, but when the new condos and apartments started to be built on the street, we knew something big was about to happen! We are excited to welcome the 300-plus newest residents to our district, making it truly the best place in Columbia to “Shop. Live. Dine.”
HOME
Best Residential Community
Mungo /Ascot Woods
Best Apartment Complex
Brookland, an Estates & Companies Community
What was your most exciting moment of 2019?
While 2019 has brought us many exciting moments, the delivery of our state-of-the-art amenities and leasing office are among our highlights, along with watching our residents and new community blend seamlessly into what is already a fantastic neighborhood in the West Columbia River District.
Best Retirement Community
Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community
What was your happiest moment of 2019?
In a recent survey, 99 percent of Still Hopes residents reported their only regret is that they wished they had moved to Still Hopes sooner. In the same survey, 99 percent of our residents said that they have encouraged others to join us. This fills us with joy!
Best Assisted Living
Lutheran Homes of South Carolina
Best Skilled Care
Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina
Best Memory Care
Carroll Campbell Place
Best Home Builder
Mungo Homes
Best Home Remodeler
Palmetto Construction & Renovations
Best General Contractor
Cohn Construction Services
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
We had such a memorable 2019. Not only did we celebrate 25 years of business, but our team grew our project experience, certifications, and safety standards. We can’t define our impactful year with just one moment.
Best Home Furnishings
Strobler Home Furnishings
Best Outdoor Furniture Store
Casual Living
Best Furniture Consignment Store
Roundabouts Consignments
We’d like to just thank the readers for voting us the Best in Columbia!
Best Custom Furniture
Ethan Allen
Best Furniture Refinisher
Alan Kinder Custom Woodwork
Best Appliance Store
Jeffers McGill Appliance and Furniture
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
We are happy to have served just the Midlands since 1961 and to create great memories every day, week, month, year, and decade. As for surprises, the only thing we can say is that it is surprising to have been able to do this for all these years, and we thank all of our customers for their support.
Best Glass Store
Ace Glass
Best Flooring
Carpet One Floor & Home
Best Roofing Company
The Red Shirt Guys Roofing
Best Wallpaper/Wall Covering Store
Wallpaper Additions
Best Home Specialty Store
Southeastern Salvage Home Emporium
Best Tile Store
Palmetto Tile Distributors
What was your most exciting moment of 2019?
My grandson Harry, who is not a very good hitter, got a walk with bases loaded, driving in the winning run during his Little League Playoff game.
— Henry Goldberg
Best Kitchen Specialty Store
The Nest
Best Bathroom Specialty Store
Gateway Supply Company
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
In the year 2019, Gateway Supply Company was named the Supply House of the Year by Supply House Times magazine, which is a national trade publication. We were very honored to receive this award!
Best Lighting Store
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
Our most memorable moment this year was finding out we won Best of Columbia 2020 for the best lighting store! Our team is focused on making sure we are up to date on the latest designs, trends and technology in the ever-changing lighting industry. Thank you for your vote, Columbia!
Best Gardening Store
Woodley’s Garden Center
What was your happiest moment of 2019?
It was partnering with Hoof & Paw in an evening event at our garden center for which 100 percent of proceeds went toward homeless animals in our community. Not only does this beautiful event contribute to a good cause, but it’s rare that we get to see and enjoy the gardens at night.
Best Fence Company
Brabham Fence
Best Swimming Pool Company
Jack Oliver’s Pool, Spa and Patio
What was your happiest moment in 2019?
The success of our 12th Annual Jack D. Oliver, Sr., Blood Drive and this year’s service on the board of The Therapy Place remind us of the importance of helping those in need.
Best Solar Company
Southeast SolarPros
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
It was when the Lexington County electrical inspector, who inspects every single solar installation in the county, called to tell us he had decided to install a solar array and wanted us to do it!
Best Security
Sonitrol Security Systems
RECREATION
Best Farmers Market
Soda City
Best Yoga
City Yoga
Best Wine and Paint Studio
Mad Platter
Best Golf Course
Cobblestone Park Golf Club
Best Hotel
Hotel Trundle
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
It was when our hotel was invited to join the prestigious Southern Living Hotel Collection, an exclusive, curated network of hotels, inns, and resorts across the South. It was a tremendous honor not only for our hotel, but for Columbia, too!
Best Marina
Nautical Boat Club (formerly Lake Murray Boat Club)
What was your most difficult moment in 2019?
This fall as we were planning to celebrate our 15th summer on Lake Murray in 2020, we were asked to rebrand Lake Murray Boat Club as Nautical Boat Club. While we have been part of this great franchise since inception, agreeing to let go of our name, logo, website, and more was unbelievably difficult.
Best Fitness Studio
barre3
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
2019 brought on an address change for barre3 Columbia and The Nail barre — 3006 Devine St.! We had hundreds of new people come through our doors in just the first week, and it has not really slowed down since. The energy is amazing, and we are so glad to be a part of Devine Street.
SERVICE
Best Facial
Eva Skin Care Day Spa
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
We have enjoyed working with local charities in our area like Camp Cole, Augies Quest, Chris Connor Foundation, Hoof and Paw Benevolent Society, and Juvenile Diabetes.
Best Massage
Bliss Massage Therapy
What was your happiest moment in 2019?
The happiest moment at Bliss actually consists of a collage of many moments that have continually encouraged Jen Brown to keep working as hard as possible to make more. Those moments are when her clients come out with the utmost relief and gratitude on their faces from her hard work.
Best Nail Salon
The Nail barre
Best Hair Salon
Metropolis Salon & Dry Bar
Best Spa
OCCO Luxury Spa
Best Wellness Center
Palmetto Health - USC Orthopedic Center
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
We helped an older adult who was wheelchair dependent and needed to lose weight in order to have knee surgery. She lost more than 100 pounds, was able to stop her medication, walk independently, and qualify for surgery. She now enjoys a full life and spends quality time with her family and friends.
Best Rehabilitation Center
Vital Energy Wellness and Rehab Center
What was your happiest moment in 2019?
The happiest moments for all of us at Vital Energy are when patients achieve their treatment milestones and we successfully rehab patients so they can enjoy life to the fullest.
Best Chiropractor
Chiropractic Wellness Center
What was your most memorable moment of 2019?
My most memorable moment was celebrating my 60th birthday with family and friends. My happiest moment was buying a condominium in Forest Acres. I “Marie Kondo’ed” the condo and downsized. Totally worth the weeks of hard work. My worst moment was the death of a beloved niece.
— Shelly Jones
Best Florist
Blossom Shop
Best Caterer
Southern Way Catering
What was your happiest moment in 2019?
In March of 2019, Southern Way partnered with local businesses Ally and Eloise, Hotel Trundle, 72 Company, Crisp Event Rentals, and City Market Place to throw a hospitality vendor party. It was so fun to host and mingle with many of the hardworking Columbia vendors that make amazing events happen every day in our great city!
Best Event Planner
Cricket Newman Designs
What is your most memorable moment?
It was watching my daughter Austin walk down the aisle. I was able to truly live in the moment as I knew my team had everything taken care of. This is our goal for every client.
— Cricket Newman
Best Wedding Planner
Meagan Warren Weddings
Best Bridal Photographer
Clark Berry Photography
Best Wedding Venue
701 Whaley
What was a unique moment in 2019?
Putting back together the broken tiles that had fallen off the wall of the historic pool for 701 Phase 2. It all came together like a giant puzzle!
Best Pet Boarding
Dog Daze Day Care, Kennel and Training
Best Pet Grooming
Carolina Paws Grooming Salon
What was your most challenging moment in 2019?
While 2018 went out rough with the passing of my longtime companion and client greeter, Lilly, 2019 came in strong thanks to the support of my loyal clients. Nothing can replace the support of my clients. I greatly appreciate each and every one.
— Kimberly Power
Best Animal Surgery Center
Capital Animal Hospital
Best Animal Emergency Center
South Carolina Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Care
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
We celebrated SCVSEC’s very own Amie Brunagan and Katie Bailey for being honored by the South Carolina Association of Veterinarians. Amie was recognized as the Veterinary Hospital Employee of the Year. Katie Bailey was awarded the Licensed Veterinary Technician of the Year. We are so proud to have them both on our team!
Best Animal Specialty Clinic
CVETS
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
CVETS is continuing the vision of adding additional specialty services to our hospital to offer expanded medical care to the Metro Columbia area. Seeing our first brain surgery successfully completed allowed us to celebrate our continued efforts of providing excellence in medicine.
Best Vet
Four Paws Animal Clinic
What was your happiest moment in 2019?
A good Samaritan brought in a sick puppy we named Pete, who was found dying and covered in vomit. After a tough go with parvo and lots of love from all of us, Pete was adopted by the Baker family. A dream come true!
Best Dry Cleaner
Tripp’s Fine Cleaners
What has been your greatest challenge?
The current time is the most challenging that we (and our industry) have faced since the polyester craze of the ’70s. There are fewer people available to employ, yet we still have to deliver excellent customer service. Basically the trends of today have forced us to adapt and make improvements (sometimes painfully) to make sure our business remains healthy for generations to come.
Commercial Cleaning Service
Palmetto Commercial Services
What is your most memorable moment?
Palmetto Commercial Services was awarded The Better Business Bureau Small Business of the Year in 2017.
Best Carpet Cleaner
Stanley Steemer of Columbia
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
The most exciting moment in 2019 was chairing the McDaniels Golf Classic & Gala benefiting the Lexington Medical Center Foundation’s Campaign for Clarity and raising a record $660,000 toward the campaign.
Best Chimney Sweep
Top Hat Sweepers
Congratulations to Columbia Metropolitan Magazine on your 30th anniversary. For Top Hat Sweepers, our relationship with this publication and the amazing staff has been very beneficial throughout the years, and we are honored to once again be awarded by your readers as Best of Columbia. We attribute a great deal of our 36 years of successful business not only to our presence in Columbia Metropolitan but also to our involvement with the Building Industry Association (formerly the HBA) and the Chamber of Commerce, as well as to our participation within the arts community.
— Ron Rust
Best Heating/Air Service
Cool Care Heating & Air
What was your most challenging moment in 2019?
Continuing to offer the same level of quality service while expanding our customer base. This was accomplished by changing our service schedule to be available seven days a week, even for maintenance visits. This allows us to maintain the same high caliber service our customers have come to expect.
Best Pest Control
Cayce Pest Control / Exterminating
Best Mosquito Company
Mosquito Squad
Best Hardscape Company
Hay Hill Services
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
My most exciting moment in 2019 was when my daughter, Blake Gantt (Wofford graduate 5/19), and my nephew, Ray Castles (Clemson graduate 5/19), told me they would like to join the Hay Hill Services team.
— Fred Gantt
Best Landscaping Company
Hay Hill Services
Best Lawn Maintenance Company
Blue Moon Landscaping
Best Tree Service
Sox & Freeman Tree Expert Company
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
Celebrating four of our team members becoming ISA Certified Arborists this year. We love seeing the eagerness in our employees in wanting to learn and grow in this industry. This helps give our customers reassurance that they are in good hands!
Best Plumbing Company
Superior Plumbing & Gas
Best Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor Lighting Perspectives
Best Event Lighting
Big Time Entertainment
Best Commercial Interior Designer
Steven Ford Interiors
What was your most exciting moment in 2019?
After working on a two and a half year project for the new tower at Lexington Medical Center, the beautiful nine story addition was completed and opened to the public.
Best Residential Interior Designer
Ford Boyd Bailey / Verve Interiors
Best Interior Design Showroom
Ethan Allen
Best Moving Company
Two Men and a Truck
What was your most exciting moment of 2019?
As of January of 2019, and for the first time in our 26-year history, we are now offering in-house climate-controlled storage to our customers!
Best Car Dealership
Jaguar/Land Rover
Best Used Car Dealership
Jim Hudson Lexus
What is your most memorable moment in 2019?
We reached the 7 million meals fed to the food challenged right here in the Midlands, and we were rated the No. 1 Lexus Dealership in the entire nation. We could have not done these two accomplishments without the support of our beloved community.
Best Car Rental Agency
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Best Auto Repair Company
Whetzel’s Automotive
What is one of your funniest moments in business?
Two years ago, when Mrs. Margaret Williams was living at Still Hopes Assisted Living, she wanted to drop her car off for service. When I met her to drive her back to Still Hopes, and she said, “Are you going to let me drive us back?” I said, “Sure, Mrs. Williams, it will be like a ride at Carowinds!”
— Rob Whetzel
Best Tire Store
Nuttall Tire
Best Boat Dealer
Mid-Carolina Marine
Best Insurance Agent
Kali Render
What was your most surprising moment of 2019?
Being recognized as a Best of Columbia recipient for 2020. It is an honor to be recognized by the community and selected from such a highly qualified group of nominees. My team and I look forward to continuing to serve the Midlands for years to come!
Best Insurance Agency
Lourie Life & Health
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
For me personally, no question it would be the wedding of my daughter Rachel. She and her husband, Bret, were married at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, and it was a beautiful and fun evening for all.
— Joel Lourie
Best Mortgage Bank
AllSouth Federal Credit Union
What was your most exciting moment of 2019?
We were excited to open our full-service location in Forest Acres earlier this year. With Saturday hours and drive-thru services, our new location provides a convenient option for our members who live and work in this area. We are happy to be a part of the beautiful Forest Acres community.
Best Real Estate Agent
Jill Moylan
Best Commercial Real Estate Agency
Trinity Partners
Best Residential Real Estate Agency
Home Advantage Realty
What was your most exciting moment of 2019?
Our most exciting moment was hearing the happy news of the birth of our clients’ triplets after selling their suddenly too small home and finding their spacious new home with room for everyone, including big brother and grandma — just in the nick of time!
Best Staffing Agency
Roper Staffing
What was your most challenging moment of 2019?
Helping our clients find top talent in our state’s longest labor shortage.
Best Travel Agency
Forest Lake Travel
Best Modeling Agency
Millie Lewis Columbia
MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT
Best Art Gallery
City Art
Best Dance School
Ann Brodie’s Carolina Ballet
Best Dance Company
Columbia City Ballet
Best Live Theatre
Town Theatre
What was your most memorable moment in recent years?
In August 2018 we held our “Tip of the Hat” event to kick off our centennial season celebrating our time as the oldest continuously operating community theatre in the nation.
Best Performing Arts Company
Columbia City Ballet
Best Museum
South Carolina State Museum
What was your most memorable moment in 2019?
In July 2019, the State Museum hosted Space Week to celebrate Apollo 11’s 50th anniversary. Nearly 8,000 guests visited and explored the exhibit, Apollo 50: Journey to the Moon, and the newly renovated Space Exhibit Gallery. Plus, Apollo 16 astronaut Gen. Charles Duke made an appearance during a special Space Week documentary screening.
Best Conference Venue
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
What was your most exciting moment of 2019?
We continued working towards our commitment to our mission to impact conservation. We are changing out all single-use plastic for compostable and recyclable options and will reach that goal by the end of 2019! We’re also incorporating Zero-Waste stations in all of our venues to make recycling and composting that much easier for our event guests.
Best Radio Station
WCOS
Best Radio Personality
Jonathon Rush
Best TV Station
WISTV
Best TV News Anchor
Judi Gatson
What was your most exciting moment of 2019?
Hands down, my most exciting moment was flying across the Tagus River in Spain as my whole family took a thrilling ride on Europe’s longest urban zipline. It put our nerves to the test but was an awesome family adventure we’ll never forget!
Best TV Sportscaster
Rick Henry
What was your most memorable moment of 2019?
Actually, all of 2019 was very memorable for me. I was named S.C. Sportscaster of the year by the National Sports Media Association. I also covered several major events, including the Super Bowl, the NBA All-Star game, the Masters, and College Football’s National Championship game. It was a great year!
Best TV Weatherperson
Jim Gandy
Best Live Music Venue
Township Auditorium
Best Local Band
Tokyo Joe
